Knockaloe bids failed DEFA criteria

'Interesting' business ideas not viable

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it lacked confidence any of the enterprises which pitched to set-up at Knockaloe Farm, were viable long term. 

That conclusion from DEFA's Director of Forestry and Amenity Andrew Sidebottom.

He says a range of interesting proposals were tabled, including traditional farming, tourism accommodation and craft workshops, but none met the department's exacting criteria.

Two years after DEFA launched a project to develop visitor attractions and businesses to Knockaloe, the idea has been dropped. 

For the next 10 years, the entire estate, a former World War 1 internment camp, will be let for agricultural use.

Mr Sidebottom says the farm needs managing and is hoping young farmers are encouraged to take on lots at the 330 acre site.

He says the department will review the situation further down the line: